Parliament at the beginning of its Thursday’s sitting observed a one-minute silence in honor of the composer and professor of the Comrat State University Ilia Filev, who died at the age of 69, IPN reports.

"Today, in Gagauzia, the people say goodbye to the famous composer, holder of the titles "Emeritus Culture Worker of ATU Gagauzia" and "Master of Arts of the Republic of Moldova", a laureate of multiple national and international competitions and festivals – Ilia Ilyevich Filev. He is known as one of the most talented composers, who produced real masterpieces, such as the anthem of the municipality of Comrat, the anthem of the Comrat State University, etc.", MP of the Bloc of Communists and Socialists Ivanna Koksal stated in the plenary session of Parliament.

Ilya Ilyevich Filev was born on August 19, 1956 in the municipality of Comrat. He graduated from "G. Muzicescu" Institute of Arts. His artistic career began in the band "Ritm". Simultaneously, he taught the accordion at the music school in his hometown. In 1989–1990, Ilya Filev founded the group "Bugeac", which quickly became popular among young people, winning prizes at international and national pop and rock music competitions. His song "Yasa, halkım" became the symbol of official events in Gagauzia.